Welcome to The Podcast on the Plains, SEC Country’s daily Auburn Tigers sports podcast with host Zac Blackerby. We are joined by SEC Country’s own Lauren Shute as we discuss John Franklin III’s decision to leave Auburn, Jarrett Stidham’s impact on the offense and Auburn Basketball’s 4-0 trip in Italy.

While Franklin, who went to South Plantation (Fla.) High School, earned his degree a few weeks ago from Auburn, it did not look like he would receive playing time this season after changing positions from quarterback to wide receiver. Franklin found himself behind several younger guys on the depth chart.

The official announcement was a statement made by coach Gus Malzahn understanding why he wanted to get playing time and be closer to home. Franklin looked to be a reserve role player this season for the Tigers.

Blackerby and Shute also discussed the impact of Stidham being named the starting quarterback earlier this week and what position group benefits the most from his promotion to the starting role.

Lastly, we discuss Auburn basketball’s trip to Italy where the club dominated the international competition. With many newcomers stepping up and finding a role, Auburn has the potential to be a force this season. While the Tigers had a young team a year ago, they return most of their scoring and production. However, when paired with incoming players such as Chuma Okeke, Davion Mitchell and Malik Dunbar, there will be a lot of competition with not enough minutes to go around.

Be on the lookout every weekday at 3:30 p.m. ET for the most recent edition of The Podcast on the Plains.